Fleischer's comments echoed those of Bush himself in a
television interview last week, in which he praised Greenspan
and said it was up to the central bank chief whether he might
wish to serve a fifth term at the helm of the U.S. central
bank.

"I think he's been a very steady and positive influence for
the economy," the Texas governor told the CBS "60 Minutes II" program in an interview. "And I look forward to working with Alan Greenspan."

Asked if he would be inclined to reappoint Greenspan to another four-year term in 2004, Bush replied: "Well, that's down the road and it's going to be up to Alan Greenspan, I suspect, as to whether or not he even wants to be considered."

On Friday, Fleischer declined comment when asked if the incoming Bush administration would follow the practice of President Bill Clinton and his aides in not commenting on the U.S. central bank's activities.

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